27/06/2020
We'd like to say a big thank you to all who have messaged and called by to check how we're doing, and to offer support. It really means a lot. Who would've thought that there'd be so many new ways for us all to adapt to? Life pre lockdown seems like a distant memory. The last couple of months have been challenging not only for us here, but for you all too. Whether you've been isolating or key working, it's been tough and the uncertainty of not knowing what's around the corner has been difficult to deal with at times. It does seem that things are looking up generally though, and we hope you'll all keep doing whatever you need to do to stay safe and well.
We're at the stage where we are unsure of our next step. We're delighted that pubs are to be allowed to re open, but because of our personal circumstances, as much as we want to welcome you all back and have a catch up, it is very unlikely that we will be up and running by 4th July.
Most of you know that as a family, we've had, and still have, a number of things to deal with.
For a while now, Laura, who has her own health issues, has been looking after her mum, Mary. She's been either going back and forth to London to help look after her there, or has brought her back here to make things a bit easier. Lockdown and isolation caused it's own problems with that, but somehow we got through. At the moment, this situation continues, but the plan is for Mary to come and live with us to make things a little easier, but that's a while off.
Again, as you all know, Lou and Trevor both have additional employment outside of the pub. That brings its own difficulties, but, for the time being, that situation will continue too. At the beginning of lockdown, both were identified as keyworkers, as was Terry, and have had little respite. Lou in particular has been keeping some extraordinary hours, filling in for sick colleagues. Her employers have been extremely thankful for her stamina and have looked after her well. Which brings me to Kevin, our sole employee who has been with us through thick and thin. Our main concern was that he would survive all this. After a lot of discussion and soul searching, we offered Kev voluntary redundancy, which he has accepted and will be leaving us. It's very sad for us all, but he feels it's the best move for him.
Between us, we're also all trying to keep things as regular as possible for Dylan. Laura's been entertaining him with paints and stories etc and he's been making the most of the lovely weather we've had. He's doing ok, kids are more resilient than adults. He's been asking where everyone is, and doesn't quite understand why you can't come and get your beer. 'Corona Virus' has been added to his vocabulary along the way. Apparently, and I quote, 'it's getting on my nerves and it needs to go away'. Well said Dylan. It getting the blame for a lot of things!
So, there you have it. It's not everything, we've had other things thrown our way to test our patience and sanity, but it's a long story, made as short as possible and we hope it gives you all some idea of the dilemma we're in. Wherever you find yourself enjoying that long awaited pint, enjoy and savour the moment. In the meantime, we'll keep you updated.
